Professional Documents
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Student Guide
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Message from the Director
“Amat Victoria Curam”, a Latin phrase that means “victory favours those who take pains”, is a motto that I hold
true and believe in wholeheartedly.
In today’s society where instant gratification and increasing simplification are popular, a programme like the
A-Levels that employs traditional teaching and learning methods stands out as an anachronism, a concept
that seems out of place in modern times. Yes, we stick to old values emphasising the depth and breadth of
subjects taught and creating a firm bedrock of fundamental knowledge that underlies a worthwhile pre-
university preparation. I would be the first to admit that the A-Level programme can often prove to be very
challenging for the less industrious and resolute students.
But any place worth going to deserves the sincere effort put in. Despite its reputation as the toughest pre-
university course, our graduates have no regrets and will testify that the pains taken have been worth it. I
strongly advocate that one’s achievement of a goal is measured by the quality of the endeavour taken to
accomplish it. There are no shortcuts to true success.
Here at Sunway University College, my team of highly experienced and dedicated lecturers aims to deliver
the best A-Level education possible. With the right coaching, seemingly insurmountable intellectual concepts
are made comprehensible. The emphasis is on making the learning experience enjoyable, memorable and
ultimately enriching.
Having kept an unfaltering track record of stellar A-Level results for the past many years, I believe that our A-
Level academic team has and will continue to provide an exceptional educational experience for our students.
I believe also that education goes beyond the mere acquisition of paper qualifications. The pastoral care
programme through our mentor-mentee system which we have been successfully implementing over the
past 13 years speaks volumes of our personal concern for each and every student. Various activities provide the
avenue for our students to develop more than just their academic abilities. We encourage their creative talents
and also cultivate leadership, social and communication skills as well as guide them in time management
expertise.
To the Sunway A-Level team, education – in its original Latin meaning of “e-ducere” or “to lead out” – is a
concept that transcends mere paper grades. We aim to develop and to lead out the inherent talents, skills and
character that are latent in our students. We believe in human potential, and that everyone – slow and fast
learners alike – deserves an opportunity to be educated, to have his or her best traits developed.
Sunway University College has been preparing students since 1994 for the General
Certificate of Education (GCE) Advanced-Level qualification through examinations set
and assessed by the University of Cambridge International Examinations (CIE).
CIE is one of the world’s leading providers of international academic qualifications and is a part of the
University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate (UCLES). This renowned body has been developing
and promoting its uniquely British system of assessment around the world for almost 150 years.
The GCE A-Level qualification places emphasis on in-depth knowledge, deep understanding, strong reasoning
abilities and critical thinking. It is arguably the most widely recognised pre-university qualification in the
world, readily accepted as proof of superior academic ability for entry into world-class universities around the
world.
CIE is the world’s largest provider of international educational qualifications with more than 1100 examination
centres across the globe. Fifty-odd such centres are currently operating in Malaysia alone. Any centre which
proves its worth through a superior delivery system that produces excellent results in the twice-yearly
examinations is accorded the status of a Fellowship Centre. Only 4 centres in Malaysia have attained this elite
status and Sunway is one of them!
University of Cambridge
International Fellowship Centre
The Fellowship Centre status awarded by CIE to our A-Level programme in 2005 is a clear recognition of our
excellent delivery system and ensuing top-notch results on a world stage. We have a consistent track record
of outstanding academic performance and a string of international awards won by our students.
In the June 2009 CIE Examinations, our overall pass rate was 98.8% with 26% of our students achieving three
A-grades or more. In that assessment, our students topped the nation in Accounting, Biology and Law, while
in Physics and Psychology, we produced the world’s best! Such sterling performances are nothing new –
recipients of CIE Top Student awards have been regularly emerging from within our ranks since 1998. To date,
we have made similar forays into Biological Science, Business subjects, Mathematics, General Paper, Chemistry
and Economics.
International A-Level and Advanced
Subsidiary Qualifications
The CIE A-Level curriculum provides a firm bedrock of fundamental knowledge by guaranteeing comprehensive
coverage in the breadth and depth of each subject offered. Students are assessed for their mastery of subject
matter, their application of knowledge and understanding to everyday scenarios and their ability to think critically
in unfamiliar situations. In the Sciences, a fair part of the assessment involves the demonstration of laboratory-
based skills. Coursework and internal examinations serve the sole purpose of preparing students for the final
external assessment which comes direct from CIE.
The programme of A-Level studies at Sunway involves a two-tiered structure of examinations leading to the
award of a certificate. The staged assessment relieves the pressure associated with sitting for one set of final
examination papers. The AS (Advanced Subsidiary) Examination tests fundamental skills while the A2 (Advanced
Level) Examination is a more wide-ranging assessment. Our 1.5-year programme comprises three semesters, each
about six months long, with the AS examinations at the end of Semester 2 and the A2 examinations at the end
of Semester 3.
Choice of Subjects
Students are required to choose a minimum of three (3), or a maximum of four (4) A-Level subjects.
Thinking Skills is also offered up to AS level only.
The following provides a guide on the subject combinations that prepare students for the various fields
of tertiary studies:
* Must be taken as a fourth subject in addition to Mathematics; offered to the January and July intakes.
Assessments
The A-Level subject syllabi are divided into the AS Level, which is the first half of the programme and forms
the foundations of A-Levels, and the A2 Level, which is the second part of the syllabus and covers more
difficult topics, with each level contributing 50% towards the final A-Level grade.
The examination papers at both the AS and A2 Levels are set and marked by examiners from the University
of Cambridge International Examinations (CIE).
Academic Requirements
A minimum of 5 credits at SPM, O-Level or equivalent qualifications.
Students who intend to take the A-Level science subjects must have at
least credits in the same SPM / O-Level pure science subjects; combined
science does not provide a sufficient foundation.
Additional Mathematics is required for A-Level Mathematics (unless the
student has an A grade in General Mathematics).
A pre-requisite of Biology in SPM / O-Level is not necessary IF the student
has distinctions in other SPM / O-Level Science / Mathematics subjects.
Help and Support A-Level Student Council
Staff from the A-Level programme and the Student Services
Department offer assistance to students in the areas of
(ALSCO)
academic and personal counselling. At the programme ALSCO is a group of committed, bright and creative young
level, each student is assigned an academic staff member as people who are the voice of the A-Level students. Each class
mentor. is represented by a member of the ALSCO.
Among the events that ALSCO has organised are the A-Level
Ball, traditional costume day, Sports Carnival and charity
Mentor-Mentee System events to raise funds for the less fortunate and needy. Being
in the ALSCO teaches members to be more tolerant and
Each lecturer in our A-Level programme is assigned a number
understanding of different races, creeds and colour. Members
of mentees who become recipients of pastoral care throughout
of ALSCO also learn to come out of their comfort zone and
their studies. At the outset, this system fosters the forging of
achieve their full potential of being leaders. ALSCO members
meaningful relationships between lecturers and students,
strive to be role models and set good examples for their fellow
and promotes the close monitoring of students’ overall
course mates.
progress. The system also identifies each mentor as a capable
and ready resource person for counsel pertaining to choice For the selection process, applicants are required to fill
of career and placement in appropriate universities. Mentors up a form about their previous extracurricular activities in
are responsible for processing all applications made by their secondary school. After that, an existing ALSCO member will
mentees, including the writing of references and testimonials. interview the applicants personally before the applicants
On a broader level, the mentor-mentee system helps guide are shortlisted to be interviewed by the A-Level Director,
the overall social, emotional and mental development of the the advisor to ALSCO. Committee meetings are held weekly
student body. to discuss and plan events or social gatherings. If you are
responsible, committed and prepared to be a leader, ALSCO
wants you!
Parents’ Day
Parents’ Day is held every semester to enable parents and
guardians to meet with lecturers and discuss academic and
Student Attendance
personal development of each student. This will enable Although attendance is not part of the evaluation process in
parents / guardians and lecturers to work together to help the A-Level programme there is a high correlation between
the student develop his / her full potential. attendance and achievement and it is likely that a student
who has a high degree of absenteeism will be doing poorly.
Attendance is a priority and is monitored and recorded
Progress Reports diligently. Students who miss five or more classes will be
reported to the Director of Programme and parents or
Progress reports are evaluative reports written by each
guardians will be informed. Persistent absence from class
subject lecturer. These reports are an important means
may result in the student being excluded from classes unless
of letting parents know about the student’s progress. The
approved by the Director of Programme.
programme regards parental involvement and home support
as critical factors in helping students improve. Two reports
are sent in the first semester and one after each of the mock
examinations. Student Punctuality
Lateness is not only disruptive to others but also adversely
affects effective class participation. Chronic lateness will be
Extracurricular Activities treated similarly to frequent absences and will be reflected
in the student’s final mark. It is within the subject teacher’s
There are many extracurricular activities available to all students
prerogative to deny access to class to chronic latecomers and
in the institution under the Student Services Department.
treat the denied access as an absence.
Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular
activity as it provides a more wholesome development of the If a student knows he / she will be absent for lessons, he / she must
student. It may also enhance a reference or testimonial. produce a parent’s letter to state the reasons and proposed
absenteeism dates in advance of the leave of absence.
Academic Counselling
If a student is found to be too far behind in the syllabus and
unable to catch up due to lack of attitude / aptitude then he /
she is to be counselled to drop the subject.
If two or more lecturers agree he / she lacks the ability to cope,
after the mid-semester report, he / she will be counselled to
change programme as appropriate.
Awards Our Students Have Received
Cambridge International Fellowship Awards
2009
A-Level Sim Hui Wen Lee Jian Ren Thong Ming Sen
Mathematics (3rd Highest Further Mathematics (Highest Mark) Law (2nd Highest Mark)
Mark, Joint Award)
Ng Hui Sin Jessica Ooi Sui Ying
Further Mathematics (3rd Highest Mark) Psychology (2nd Highest Mark)
Thong Ming Sen Justin Ooi Seng Geap
Law (2nd Highest Mark) Psychology (3rd Highest Mark)
“Throughout, my dedicated lecturers guided me. They were willing to help, give extra classes and answer any questions,
ensuring we understood what was taught. They stressed the importance of mastering coursework and taking pleasure in
learning, not focusing only on exams. My time at Sunway was thoroughly enjoyable, not very stressful and paced just right
for studies and activities. The A-Levels can be very demanding, but is also the course that one gets the most out of.”
Oh Coyin
CIE Outstanding Achiever Awards 2009: Top in Malaysia for Biology
Cambridge International Fellowship Awards: 2nd highest mark in the world for Biology (June ‘09 AS level) and Highest
mark in the world for Physics (June ‘09 AS level)
Science (MIT scholarship), Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Chong Hwa Independent High School, KL
“Why Sunway? I could say a pleasant environment, top-notch facilities, or even the warm rapport among students, but
my main reason was its emphasis of quality over quantity, unlike other places that seem more like factories. Brilliant and
dedicated lecturers combined with small classes mean that lessons can be tailored to meet each student’s needs, giving
pupils ample opportunity to develop to their full potential.”
“Sunway has what most institutions lack these days – dedicated lecturers and a competitive environment, both of which
bring out the best in students. I spent most of my time in the library as it caters perfectly for study and research work. The
A-Levels has no doubt cultivated, in students, a hunger for success.”
“A group of dedicated and committed lecturers that helped propel us to greater heights complemented by a close-knit
and awesome group of friends. These made a great learning and bonding experience in Sun-U A-Levels!”
“What did Sun-U’s A-Level programme mean to me? A conducive study environment, small class sizes, experienced and
dedicated lecturers who were always approachable, friendly and helpful. Thanks a million for my excellent achievement in
the A-Level exams! May Sunway University College grow from strength to strength!”
“With great facilities, sweet, lovely friends and supportive lecturers, studying the A-Levels in Sunway University College was
a memorable experience. Besides studying, acquiring basic life skills and communication skills from various extracurricular
activities will definitely help me for my future.”
Michelle Soong
Mathematics & Economics, NTU
SMK Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra, Kulai, Johor
“Being a part of Sunway University College’s A-Level programme was a beautiful experience. The teaching is first class and
the community is incredibly friendly and supportive. Anyone who comes seeking an enriching and exciting experience
will no doubt find it here.”
Tan Li Lynn
Physiotherapy, University of Sydney
SMK Bandar Utama, Damansara (4)
“Life in Sunway’s A-Levels was enjoyable and worthwhile. I give my thanks to the committed lecturers I had who gave me
all their help and support throughout the course!”
“Sunway University College provides an excellent teaching and learning environment. A million thank yous to my lecturers
who helped me when I had problems in my studies. Without all of you, I would not have achieved what I have now.”
Ng Yee Ding
Bachelor of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham (Malaysia Campus)
SMK Bandar Tun Hussein Onn 2, Cheras
“The Sunway A-Levels was a very enlightening experience, as along the way I had dedicated lecturers who were willing
to shed blood, sweat and tears for us. They truly instilled the essence of learning in our hearts, a hallmark of top quality
lecturers. Furthermore, I met many wonderful friends who were always there to lend a helping hand and provide
encouragement. Thus, Sunway’s A-Levels will be a wise choice for anyone looking to further their studies.”
Clifford Sim
Dental Surgery, University of Sheffield
SMK Green Road, Kuching, Sarawak
“I enjoyed my time in Sunway as the lecturers there were friendly and very helpful. I met great friends there and made
great memories with them at Sunway University College.”
“The A-Level course was tough and challenging but it moulds you into a better, more versatile person. It was a fun ride!
The teachers showed much dedication and I left with plenty of happy memories.”
Charmaine Leong
Medicine, Russian State Medical University
Highest Mark, Joint Award in the world (Nov ’09 AS-Level) for Mathematics
Tile Hill Wood School And Language College, Conventry, UK
“I definitely had a memorable time studying in Sunway University College – a campus with experienced lecturers, excellent
facilities and great people.”
“Never in my educational life have I felt quite as ebullient as when I was studying at Sunway. The lecturers were always
keen to help, even outside lecture hours, and were never stingy with encouragement. Sun-U A-Levels has been an
important step on the ladder of my studies.”
Ng Eu Ken
BSc Business Management, King’s College, University of London
Epsom College, Epsom Surrey, England
OUR PROGRAMMES
PRE-UNIVERSITY STUDIES
• Australian Matriculation
• Cambridge GCE A Level
• Canadian International Matriculation Programme
• Monash University Foundation Year
• Sunway Foundation in Arts
POSTGRADUATE PROGRAMMES
• Masters in Management
• Masters in Money, Banking & Finance
• MSc in Computer Science (by research)